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Making a Freelance Translation Career Work for You

Working as a freelancer often requires more structure and organisation than one might assume. If you have worked as a freelance translator, you probably know that freelancing requires more work than just the translating itself. Still, working as a freelance translator can be a lucrative career and also give you a lot of freedom with your work/life balance. Working freelance is something you can do full-time, part-time or in addition to another job. Whether you are starting out as a translator or have years of experience, to be a successful freelancer there are a few things you should bear in mind.

Keep Looking

If you want to keep a consistent flow of work coming your way, you will have to continue look for work and market yourself as a translator. Don’t expect projects to fall out of the sky. You might be lucky enough to have a client or company that offers you repeating business. Treating your clients with honesty and respect will encourage them to come back to you again.

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Push Yourself

As a freelancer, the good news is that you are your own boss. The bad news is that you are your own boss. That means that without anyone else to motivate you, you need to get on your own case. Commit to contacting a certain number of new clients or leads per month as well as following up with people you have worked for. And do it!

Grow

As a translator, you obviously already speak at least two languages fluently but you can still improve your language skills and abilities. Doing so will help to boost your confidence. You also might consider learning more languages to increase your marketability. You don´t have to move to another country to do so. For example, if you want to learn Portuguese London has many wonderful options for studying and practicing your skills. You can improve your Spanish in London with UIC or any of the city’s excellent schools. There are many ways for you to continue to grow.

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Know Your Strengths and Develop New Ones

The more you know, the more marketable you will be. If you have experience in a certain field that can definitely be to your advantage. But you don´t have to be an expert in everything you translate. Be honest with clients about your background and experience but don´t be afraid to take on new kinds of topics and projects.

Date: 1 de , 2011
Posted in General

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